Having just lately spent the summer time pet-sitting on this historic metropolis, having fun with the vary of hikes and walks that have been out there within the space, I’ve put collectively an inventory of the 15 finest walks in Bathtub, UK.
Bathtub sits in a good looking a part of England and attracts a lot of guests yearly. Guests come to Bathtub for its historical past and tradition – town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site, in any case!
Others come for the superb cafe, bar, and restaurant scene, and lots of crowds flock to town as a result of Bathtub gives the proper mix of all of this stuff. Walks and hikes are actually on the checklist of high issues to do in Bathtub.
Bathtub is situated within the south-west of England within the county of Somerset. The town, which is house to two universities, additionally occurs to be nestled amongst some improbable countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the Avon River/Canal are inside straightforward attain by way of just a few leisurely Bathtub walks.
Greatest Hikes and Walks in Bathtub
I’ve loved climbing and strolling everywhere in the world. From the mountains of Southern California to the vineyards of Florence and Sienna; numerous my journeys are primarily based round exploring locations on foot. I like the completely different perspective of a city or metropolis you may achieve by taking a stroll (or one thing extra strenuous), plus it’s nice train.
I’m additionally keen on a strolling tour and wandering amongst the structure of a metropolis admiring its magnificence at a mild tempo. So, on this checklist, you’ll discover a good combination of hikes that pose a problem in addition to routes for many who are merely in search of some relaxed strolling in Bathtub.
1. Bathtub Deep Lock – Bathampton
Let’s start with what I take into account to be among the best walks in Bathtub. Utilizing Bathtub Deep Lock as a place to begin, we’re going to go alongside the gorgeous Avon Canal all the best way to the neighboring village of Bathampton.
This route sticks to the Canal your complete manner however does at instances require you to cross to the opposite aspect as one pathway involves an finish. I beloved admiring the various fairly narrowboats that moor up alongside the banks of the Canal, and watching because the boaters function the locks. Quite them than me!
You’ll encounter ornate bridges, a historic pumphouse, a floating B&B, and hopefully loads of wildlife too. Proceed strolling east from Bathtub till you come to the George Inn – a beautiful conventional English nation pub with 2 huge beer gardens and a courtyard simply steps from the Canal. It’s the proper place to refuel for the journey again to Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Deep Lock – End – The George Inn at Bathampton
Size: 4.6 Miles (7.4km)
Length: 2 Hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
2. Bathtub Skyline Stroll
For these in search of good climbing in Bathtub, look no additional than the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This encompasses a loop of the outer hills of town and takes in some spectacular views and wonderful English countryside alongside the best way.
Start at Bathtub Spa Prepare Station, and stroll east out of town you start a steep climb to succeed in the loop. I’d advise you to comply with the route clockwise, as throughout my earlier hike right here the signage had been eliminated within the anticlockwise route. This led to some mishaps and turnbacks because the path will be deceptive at instances.
You should definitely put on sturdy climbing boots as some components of the route can change into fairly muddy. If there’s been extended, heavy rain, take into account saving this hike for an additional day. Typically, the route is well-maintained and straightforward to comply with and it’s definitely worth the effort of the climb for the views. The Skyline Stroll is considered one of my favourite climbing trails in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Bathtub Spa Station, Bathtub BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size: 7.5 miles (12.07km)
Length: 3-4 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 1,100 ft
3. Bathtub Spa – Sham Fort
Among the best easy hill walks close to Bathtub is the gorgeous simple route as much as Sham Fort. I used to be out for a morning stroll and got here throughout what I assumed have been some long-lost ruins, however it turned out to be Sham Fort. It’s what is named a folly, (basically a bit of structure constructed purely for adornment), and isn’t actually a citadel in any respect.
The stroll to Sham Fort was very good, nevertheless, and also you’ll be handled to some improbable views of town when you’re there. Starting once more from Bathtub Spa Station, stroll east out of town alongside the canal till you attain Bathwick Hill. Climb the hill, turning left onto Cleveland Stroll. Alongside this highway, you’ll meet footpaths that head all the best way as much as Sham Fort.
You may be part of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll too and lengthen this hike exponentially. Or just return alongside an identical route again to Bathtub Metropolis Heart. That is finest to finish on a good looking clear day so you may benefit from the pretty views.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – Sham Fort
Size: 2.8 miles (4.51km)
Length: 1.5 – 2 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 246 ft
4. Bathtub Spa – Bathtub Abbey – The Royal Crescent
I had fairly just a few members of the family and pals go to me throughout my keep in Bathtub and I obtained fairly good at giving ‘the tour’ of the favored sights of town. I’m pleased to share with you this free strolling tour in Bathtub that takes in some actual architectural wonders.
Utilizing Bathtub Spa station as your place to begin, head north into town middle, following the important excessive road. That is often a busy thoroughfare and inside a couple of minutes you’ll come throughout the magnificent Bathtub Abbey and Roman Baths in your proper. You should definitely spend loads of time having fun with this iconic a part of Bathtub’s historical past.
While you’re prepared proceed north, flip left once you attain George Avenue, after which instantly proper. It will then lead you on to the Circus – a shocking assortment of Georgian homes in-built a spherical. Simply steps from right here is considered one of Bathtub’s most well-known landmarks; the equally beautiful Royal Crescent.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – The Royal Crescent
Size 2.4 miles (3.86km)
Length: 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
5. Bathtub – Bradford-on-Avon
For those who’re feeling energetic, take into account taking up the Bathtub to Bradford-on-Avon stroll. It takes in among the finest locations to hike within the space. You’ll move by fabulous English countryside, the Avon Canal, the Tucking Mill reservoir, and The Two Tunnels Greenway (one of many tunnels is over a mile lengthy!).
That is typically thought-about a difficult route and shouldn’t be undertaken with out prior planning and preparation. The reward on the finish is the fantastic city of Bradford-on-Avon with all of its quintessential English historic attraction and its many quaint cafes, retailers, and pubs.
It’s an extended, powerful stroll and I wouldn’t advise trying to stroll there and again in in the future. Common buses and trains provide the choice to make it a one-way hike. The pub by the Bradford-on-Avon prepare station – The Three Horseshoes, is considered one of my favorites within the city.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Bathtub Spa Station, Bathtub BA1 1SU, United Kingdom
Size 12 miles (19.2km)
Length: 5 hours
Sort of Path: Level to Level
Elevation Achieve: 1600 ft
6. Widcombe Hill
One in every of my common Bathtub treks was to climb Widcombe Hill. I stayed within the neighboring suburb of Widcombe for the whole thing of my keep in Bathtub and loved the train of climbing up the hill just a few instances every week. The views of town as you attain the highest are breathtaking.
The hill itself is fairly steep at instances, and provides you with a superb leg and butt burn! It appears to go on for some time too however it’s not too lengthy till you attain the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. From Bathtub, it is a pretty brief, however pretty energetic, stroll with a fantastic view to complete (I’ll be increasing on this stroll extra within the subsequent hike).
You should definitely cease on the Ring O Bells in Widcombe for a rewarding post-hike pint. As featured within the 15 Greatest Pubs in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Station – End – Widcombe Hill View Level
Size 1.4 miles (2.25km)
Length: 40 minutes – 1 hour
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 492 ft
7. Monkton Combe
Among the best climbing trails close to Bathtub is a continuation of the earlier hike as much as and past the Widcombe Hill Viewpoint. Proceed a bit of additional and also you’ll attain the tiny village of Monkton Combe, the place you may relaxation your legs and revel in a rewarding beer on the Wheelwrights Arms.
As you attain the apex of Widcombe Hill, a public footpath on the fitting hyperlinks you to a stretch of the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. This cuts throughout lovely inexperienced fields and tree-lined walkways. On weekends you’ll be capable to seize a espresso en route from the Mole Hill Espresso – a horsebox turned cafe that was featured within the 15 Greatest Cafes and Espresso Retailers in Bathtub 2023.
While you attain Combe Down, cross the primary road and take Shaft Highway. This small road results in a set of descending stairs that land you in Monkton Combe. The views from the stone steps are beautiful, however you should definitely gas up earlier than trying the return journey, they’re fairly steep! The Wheelwrights Arms is then only a brief stroll to your left.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – Wheelwrights Arms Nation Inn & Pub
Size: 6 miles (9.66km)
Length: 2.5 – 3 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 550 ft
8. Avon Canal Stroll – West
The gorgeous Avon River and Canal are an actual focus of Bathtub Metropolis Heart. You’ll come throughout ornate bridges and the flowing water many instances simply strolling across the metropolis. The Kennet and Avon Canal stretches 87 miles from Bristol within the west of England to Studying, west of London.
Public footpaths path the 87-mile journey, which makes a canal stroll an easy-to-follow and pleasant endeavor. Merely choose up the water behind Bathtub Spa Station and head west conserving the river in your left always. It will lead you to a pleasant pub cease – The Locksbrook Inn – in round 45 minutes.
You may as well lengthen this Bathtub river stroll all the best way to Bristol should you’re so inclined! However I’d recommend simply persevering with for an additional 10-Quarter-hour till you attain The Boathouse Pub. It’s one other nice cease by the water for a last refreshment earlier than heading again to Bathtub alongside the identical route.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin – Bathtub Spa Prepare Station – End – The Boathouse Pub
Size 5.2 miles (8.37km)
Length: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
9. Metropolis Strolling Tour
There are a selection of nice strolling excursions in Bathtub. Educated Blue Badge tour guides will make sure you see all the necessary structure, monuments, and culturally important components of town. You may put your map of Bathtub away and decide to be proven the best way by somebody who is aware of all of it inside out.
My dad and mom got here for a go to and took a guided tour (I believe they doubted the standard of my free guided tour…) they usually beloved it! The choice they went for even included entry to the Roman Baths, so that they obtained to tick off one other main landmark on the identical morning.
Excursions are widespread in Bathtub, particularly throughout weekends and the summer time holidays. I’d advise reserving effectively upfront. Click on right here to be taught extra about Bathtub strolling excursions and to ebook your’s forward of time.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin and end at Bathtub Abbey
Size: 1.5 – 2 miles (3 – 3.5km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
10. Bridgerton Tour
For fanatics of the hit TV collection “Bridgerton,” I’ve obtained excellent news for you. Many scenes from the present have been shot in Bathtub and there’s a strolling tour tailor-made only for followers of the present. Why spend ages trying to establish the enduring filming places by yourself? As an alternative, be part of a educated information on a complete journey by key websites.
Throughout the 90-minute tour, you’ll stroll by the outside of Girl Danbury’s residence and go to the Nationwide Belief property the place quite a few ballroom scenes have been captured. Alongside the best way, immerse your self in fascinating behind-the-scenes insights concerning the present, shared by your educated information.
This strolling tour of Bathtub is an effective way to see one other aspect of town. And should you beloved the present, even higher. Click on right here to ebook your Bridgerton strolling tour at the moment.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin and end at York St, Bathtub BA1 1NH, UK
Size: Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
11. Newton St. Loe Round
A route I sadly didn’t get the possibility to do, however one which was actually on my radar, was the Newton St Loe Round. I’ve heard it’s among the best household walks close to Bathtub. The straightforward-to-moderate path is widespread with canine walkers, joggers, and hikers of all ages and talents.
Located only a brief drive from central Bathtub, the route takes in a few lakes, woodland trails, and even a small citadel. The paths are thought-about good and easy-going, however among the opinions lead me to consider that on moist days they will change into very muddy. So, should you’re planning on taking this one on and don’t fancy the mud, maybe await a dry day.
You’ll additionally be capable to take a slight detour and go to the Newton Farm Store and Cafe which is only a few minutes stroll into the village of Newton St Loe at the beginning (or finish) of your stroll. It’s a cute place for a espresso, a lightweight snack, lunch, or to select up some domestically produced groceries and goodies.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Workshop Lane, Newton St Loe
Size 2.2 miles (3.5km)
Length: 50 minutes – 1 hour
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 200 ft
12. Keltson Round Path
I completely loved the Kelston Round hike, it gives among the finest climbing in Bathtub. The picturesque path winds across the hills that encompass the village of Kelston and the fantastic Bathtub countryside. The beautiful views of the Avon Valley and the meandering River Avon make this considered one of my favourite Bathtub climbing routes.
With a distance of round 7 miles, the climb is difficult at instances and would go well with hikers of reasonable expertise ranges. The terrain gives a mix of rolling hills, regular accents, and rewarding viewpoints. Parking is on the market on the Swineford Picnic Web site, the place you’ll additionally discover the trailhead.
However the very welcoming Swan Inn at Swineford served as my place to begin. I fueled up with a tasty lunch right here earlier than embarking on the journey. This hike is a superb technique to escape town, breathe within the recent countryside air, and immerse your self within the pure magnificence that surrounds Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Park up and start on the Swineford Picnic Web site
Size 7 miles (11.1km)
Length: 3 – 4 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 1,155 ft
13. Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll
If, like me, you take pleasure in some unusual tales blended in with some laughs, you’ll get an actual kick from the Bizare Bathtub Comedy Stroll. My husband and I signed up for this guided tour as we wished to listen to among the extra quirky tales of town we have been staying in.
It was much less of a historical past tour and extra of a bit of road theater. Our information was actually comical and basically used varied places as backdrops for telling tales. It was a very completely different vibe to the historic guided stroll my dad and mom booked and showcased some various components of town.
It’s an effective way to get your steps in for the day while strolling round Bathtub, seeing some high sights, and listening to some actually fascinating and humorous tales. I’d extremely suggest it. Click on right here to be taught extra about this Bathtub stroll.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin and end at The Huntsmans Inn, Terrace Stroll Bathtub BA1 1LJ
Size Approx. 2 miles (3.22km)
Length: 1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
14. Royal Victoria Park
Right here’s a creation of my very own, and one other free strolling tour of Bathtub. Royal Victoria Park is a good looking landscaped inexperienced space that comes with botanical gardens, a restaurant, and quite a few ponds and monuments. The park loop is a simple stroll and takes in some wonderful Bathtub surroundings and sights.
Located steps from the Royal Crescent, use the Victoria Park Bandstand as your place to begin and head in both route across the park. You should definitely tick off the Colossal Head of Jupiter, The Nice Dell, and the Temple of Minerva in your manner. For those who’re fortunate, and select to walk round on a pleasant night, you might even see hot-air balloons launching from the park.
It’s a well-liked strolling space simply exterior of the primary hub and is without doubt one of the finest locations for canine walks close to Bathtub Heart.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Begin at end on the Victoria Park Bandstand
Size: 1.3 miles (2.09 km)
Length: 25 – half-hour
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Largely flat
15. Bathtub Ramblers
For those who’re in search of strolling teams in Bathtub, the Ramblers could also be simply what you’re after. A very good good friend beneficial them to me and though I used to be finally unable to arrange a hike with them, I used to be very concerned about their membership. For those who’re on the town for some time, they’re a useful walker’s useful resource.
The Ramblers promote the enjoyment of strolling within the native countryside with repeatedly scheduled group walks and hikes across the lovely Bathtub countryside. Non-members are at all times welcome, and should you attend three walks you’ll be invited to change into a fully-fledged member.
For that reason, and for his or her efforts within the preservation of the native setting, I’ve made them my last alternative for walks round Bathtub entry. On high of the 14 glorious walks listed beforehand, the Bathtub Ramblers will open up a plethora of information and insights into much more of the perfect walks in Bathtub.
Path Particulars and Info
Web site: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/ramblers-groups/bath-group
The place to Keep in Bathtub
These are just a few of the perfect neighborhoods and areas in and round Bathtub:
Bathtub Metropolis Heart
Staying within the coronary heart of town means you’ll have handy proximity to lots of Bathtub’s points of interest. An array of resort decisions can be found, catering to a variety of budgets. So, whether or not you’re in search of a cheap weekend keep or a extra luxurious spa break escape, you’ll discover it in Bathtub Metropolis Heart.
Right here’s a nice resort I discovered, it’s conveniently near the prepare station too.
Widcombe
Widcombe boasts its personal bustling excessive road, full with an enthralling assortment of outlets, cafes, and pubs, making it an excellent place to begin for a weekend journey in Bathtub. An additional advantage is that numerous vacationers are inclined to overlook this quaint Bathtub suburb. It lies simply past the prepare station, a couple of minutes stroll in the wrong way from town middle.
Right here, you may uncover a number of pleasant flats, all inside straightforward attain of town’s middle. Check out this residence choice – it’s superbly completed, has personal parking, and is right for every day walks into Bathtub.
Coombe Down
Inns and flats inside Bathtub’s metropolis middle can include a hefty price ticket, making the thought of searching for lodging within the outskirts a sensible and budget-friendly various. The charming village of Combe Down, situated simply 3 miles away, is a wonderful alternative because it offers handy bus connections to town middle.
My family opted for this association throughout their keep and made an enormous saving. For instance, this vacation house is a superb choice and contains a totally geared up kitchen and a backyard space so you may take advantage of your keep.
Climbing in Bathtub: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on climbing round Bathtub, England:
The preferred hike in Bathtub is the Bathtub Skyline Stroll. The round strolling path gives beautiful views of town and its surrounding countryside. It’s a favourite amongst each locals and guests for its mixture of pure magnificence and ranging terrain. It offers a possibility to flee into the countryside whereas nonetheless having fun with town’s proximity.
Of the various leisurely and straightforward walks round Bathtub, a hike alongside the Avon Canal might be the simplest. The largely flat terrain stays alongside the canal for miles in every route. Effectively-maintained paths and common entry factors imply the route will be as lengthy or brief as you’d like.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is probably the most lovely path in Bathtub. It gives superb panoramic views of town, permitting you the chance to benefit from the scenic countryside, rolling hills, and many pure wonders.
Trekking Bathtub isn’t inherently harmful, however as with every hike you should definitely take primary precautions. Put on applicable footwear and clothes, plan forward, and put together for inclement or antagonistic climate. Pack water and meals should you’re trying a sizeable hike. Know your route and have good steerage choices with you reminiscent of maps, a cellphone, and so forth.
Completely. Strolling in Bathtub UK is an effective way to discover the cultural and historic sights of town. The largely pedestrianized metropolis middle permits the general public to discover with out concern for automobiles or site visitors. There are additionally many nice hikes and walks simply exterior of town.
Sure, you actually can. Among the finest treks in Bathtub are situated alongside the Avon River and Canal. Stretching all the best way from Bristol within the west to Studying 87 miles away, the Avon has large swathes of footpaths that enable for some lovely walks and hikes alongside its banks.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is without doubt one of the hottest Bathtub trails and is taken into account to be of reasonable issue. In full, at 7.5 miles and 1,100 ft incline, there are some fairly sharp accents and lengthy stretches of strolling. The terrain can typically be a bit of muddy too, however the views are completely definitely worth the effort.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll is 7.5 miles lengthy and achieves an altitude of 1,100 ft – it ought to take skilled hikers round 3 hours to finish in its entirety.
The Bathtub Skyline Stroll will be muddy in locations however is probably among the best summer time walks in Bathtub. Planning to undertake it in hotter months can even give hikers a greater likelihood of a transparent day and even higher views. Predominantly, the route is well-maintained and walkable always of the yr.
In Closing
Bathtub is a superb place to go to should you take pleasure in strolling or climbing. I beloved having so many nice prospects at my disposal throughout my time within the metropolis.
So, if it’s strolling in Bathtub Metropolis Heart, whole day hikes round Bathtub and the encompassing lovely countryside that can problem even probably the most seasoned of hikers, or possibly one thing in-between you’re in search of, you’re certain to search out it in Bathtub.
Comfortable trekking!
